The 2026 World Cup is shaping up to be an exciting tournament, with an expanded field of 48 teams creating an even greater opportunity for unexpected success stories. Among the potential dark horses, Japan stands out as a nation with the right blend of talent, experience, and recent form to make a deep run.
Japan's journey to the World Cup has been impressive, becoming the first non-host nation to qualify for the finals with an almost flawless qualifying campaign. The team, led by manager Hajime Moriyasu, has set its sights high, with Moriyasu himself declaring his ambition to lead Japan to World Cup glory. This confidence is well-founded, as the squad boasts players like Daichi Kamada and Ao Tanaka, who have proven their mettle in European leagues.
One of the key factors in Japan's potential success is the increasing number of Japanese players plying their trade in Europe's top leagues. Former Southampton defender and Japan captain Maya Yoshida, now a support player with the team, attributes Japan's ability to compete with top-ranked nations to this European experience. He highlights how Japanese players now regularly face or play alongside World Cup-level talent, which has elevated their game and given them a unique edge.
Japan's recent results back up this claim. Since their last World Cup appearance, they have defeated England, Germany, and Brazil, showcasing their ability to compete with the best. This experience and success will be vital as they navigate a challenging Group F, which includes Sweden, Tunisia, and the Netherlands.
While Japan is not alone in its potential to surprise, with teams like Mexico, Ecuador, Turkey, and South Korea also in the mix, the Samurai Blue's recent form and ambition make them a particularly intriguing prospect. As former England striker Chris Sutton noted, Japan's technical prowess and ability to rise to the occasion make them a dangerous opponent for any team.
In conclusion, Japan's journey to the World Cup and their recent performances suggest they could be a dark horse in the tournament. With a talented squad, a confident manager, and a growing number of players gaining valuable experience in Europe, Japan has the ingredients to make a memorable run. As the tournament unfolds, it will be fascinating to see if the Samurai Blue can live up to their potential and become one of the success stories of the 2026 World Cup.
